SEMA News—November 2013

CHRIS KERSTING

SEMA at 50: Celebrating Five Decades of Automotive Passion

At a recent SEMA Installation Banquet I was noting some of the challenges that confront the industry and I read an excerpt from an industry trade publication: “We may wake up one morning soon and find there’s no one left with any reason to buy headers or manifolds or a host of other performance products designed to make a car perform better… We may also wake up and discover that a future generation of young people aren’t all that interested in the automobile because the excitement of it is gone—or maybe legislated away by safety and clean air regulations….”

The interesting thing about the excerpt? It was published in an industry trade magazine in January 1971! The headline reads “Does Our Industry Have Just 5 Years Left?”

The apparent answer: 5 years… and then some. In the ensuing decades, the industry has addressed challenges, adapted, evolved and generated the opportunities to not only survive, but thrive and grow. Today’s specialty-equipment market is 30 times the size it was when that article was penned.

In 1963 the association had no paid staff—whatever got done was the work of the industry volunteers who set the direction and undertook the projects of the association. The mission then was the same as the SEMA mission today—to help the members succeed and prosper. The difference is that today, we have a talented and dedicated staff, yet we deliver value because much of what we do is a collaboration with deeply committed industry volunteers.

It’s especially exciting to be celebrating SEMA’s 50th at this year’s SEMA Show. The Show represents our industry’s annual reunion of innovation, serving as the official finish line for new product development and introduction. The Show attracts a world of attendees to view the most impressive collection of automotive creativity, styling trends and performance advances gathered in one place at one time.

Like the industry itself, the SEMA Show this year will be a bit larger than in the days of our humble beginnings. The SEMA staff and volunteer leaders appreciate the Show’s growth—but our main focus is on making it a high-quality, high-value event for the industry. This year’s SEMA Show is no exception. We’ve actively educated both exhibitors and buyers on how to prepare. We’ve helped exhibitors learn how to promote their businesses, maximize exposure for the products they bring, and gain an expert understanding of trade show logistics. On the buyer side, we’ve conducted aggressive outreach to attract more buyers and to show them how they can be more productive in an expanded Show.

Another key productivity improver is the New Products Showcase. We’ve equipped the Showcase with bar code scanners to allow buyers to quickly capture unlimited new product information for easy follow-up. We’ve also improved and added features to the SEMA Show app, to put more info at the fingertips of more people.

All that’s left now is for you to get to the SEMA Show and take advantage of the business-building opportunities. And to help celebrate our 50th, when you see a badge indicating “Hall of Fame” or “Board Member” or “Council Select Committee,” be sure to thank the bearer for their service in helping the association help its members to succeed—50 year’s worth is something to appreciate. See you at the Show!

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Steve Campbell
Photography Courtesy of the Las Vegas News Bureau

Good Times in Las Vegas

Taking Advantage of the Recreational Possibilities

Car Guy (and Gal) Attractions

The Richard Petty Driving Experience: Located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Speedway allows participants to take command of the wheel and experience the thrill of driving a NASCAR race car. The Speedway is a modern motorsports facility that offers several competition courses for drivers looking to improve their skills. Location: 7055 Speedway Blvd.,
Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-237-3889.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing: Be there when the checkers fall! Fast Lap Las Vegas is within walking distance of the Strip for wheel-to-wheel racing at 40 miles per hour—which seems plenty fast when your keister is inches from the ground. Each heat allows 13 adults to compete in timed and recorded races, and Fast Lap is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 4288 S. Polaris Ave, Suite 109, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-736-8113

Pole Position Raceway: The karting at Pole Position Raceway offers another competition option. Standard races last about 10 minutes, with separate categories for adults and kids, and there are group and party packages that feature reserved times for private racing in two-, three- and four-race formats. There are also options for even larger groups that wish to rent the whole facility. Location: 4175 S. Arville, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-227-7223.

Off-Highway Adventures

Bitter Springs Trail Backcountry Byway: Four-wheel drive is recommended on this 28-mile route that runs from Valley of Fire State Park to North Shore Drive in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail traverses dry washes and skirts desert streams, abandoned mines and rare geological formations along the way. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Gold Butte Back Country Byway: The 62-mile Gold Butte Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Mesquite, about 90 miles outside of Las Vegas, and offers views of native desert wildlife, colored sandstone, sinkholes and ancient petroglyphs. The small town of Gold Butte was mined for copper, gold, zinc and lead beginning in the early 1900s, and the byway also passes a forest of Joshua trees. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Scenic Routes

Las Vegas Strip Scenic Byway: This tour of the Vegas Strip passes by the hotel and casino landmarks that have become synonymous with the city: an Egyptian pyramid, a medieval castle, the New York City skyline, a Roman temple, the Eiffel Tower, dancing water and an erupting volcano. This route has been designated as an All-American Road. Information is here or call 702-892-0711.

Red Rock Canyon Backcountry Byway: If you’re looking for something a little more pastoral, check out this scenic loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is found 12 miles west of Las Vegas off State Route 159. The paved roadway includes self-guided trails, picnic areas and vista pullouts. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle, which is used for improvements to the site. Information is here or call 702-515-5000.

Valley of Fire Scenic Byway: Replete with campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic grounds—and only 30 minutes from Las Vegas—the Valley of Fire is like a stone chameleon that changes color as the day progresses. Best viewing times are sunrise and sunset, when the rocks practically glow. Bring your camera. Information is here or call 702-397-2088.

Art and Museums

National Atomic Testing Museum: Atomic bombs were exploded just 65 miles from Las Vegas at the Nevada Test Site, which was the major nuclear testing facility in the United States from 1951–1992. The 8,000-sq.-ft. museum features video displays and galleries that explain the background behind the tests and the environmental impacts that led to the end of testing throughout the world. Location: 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-794-5151.

Arts Factory: Artists, architects, photographers and graphic designers rent space and work in this 50-year-old commercial warehouse that shelters a crafts cornucopia and is located near downtown Las Vegas in the 18b Arts District. In addition to artists and galleries, the building houses several bars and retailers. Location: 105 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-383-3133.

Bodies...The Exhibition: This exhibition displays real human bodies treated with a process called polymer preservation. The exhibits provide detailed, 3D views of human anatomy, with 13 whole bodies and more than 200 organs and partial bodies. The bodies are respectfully presented, “giving visitors the opportunity to view the beauty and complexity of their own organs and systems.” Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: If you’re more into animals other than humans, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. It includes displays on dinosaurs, marine life (including whales and sharks) and international wildlife as well as wild Nevada, the African savanna and rainforests. Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-384-3466.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: You may not get to gawk at the world’s most famous celebrities in the flesh, but you can see immaculate wax representations at Madame Tussauds; there are more than 100 models. Location: The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, 3377 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Suite 2001, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 866-841-3739.

The Mob Museum: This museum showcases organized crime’s origins in Las Vegas with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive exhibits. It provides an insider’s look at the events and people involved in both the law-enforcement and mob sides of the story. Location: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-229-2734.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas: This museum interprets the history of Nevada, dating from millions of years ago to the present. With displays on geology, flora and fauna, it also includes information about Native Americans, pioneers, early settlers and local landmarks. Location: 309 South Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-486-5205.

Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition: The 25,000-sq.-ft. exhibit features items such as luggage, an unopened bottle of 1900 vintage champagne and a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase. Visitors even have a chance to walk through authentically re-created first- and third-class rooms, with furnishings by original manufacturers. Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

The Great Outdoors

Golf in Vegas: There is a huge variety of golf courses in and around Las Vegas, including the Arroyo Golf Club at Red Rock; the Bali Hai, Mandalay Bay; the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club; the Snow Mountain course at Paiute Golf Resort; the TPC Las Vegas and dozens more. The well-kept fairways, water features and lush vegetation make each one a treasure. Information is here.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: For boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife and sightseeing all year long, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer great recreation. Located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas, the Visitor Center is open every day. Alongside Hoover Dam is the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge crossing the Colorado River—the first concrete-steel composite arch bridge built in the United States. Information: www.nps.gov/lake or call 702-293-8990.

For Kids of All Ages!

Vegas Indoor Skydiving: You can fly! At least you can in this vertical wind tunnel with either a single flight session or as a participant in a personalized coaching program. It’s said to be a popular training resource for sport skydivers, competition teams and military units. Location: 200 Convention Center Dr., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 877-LUV2FLY.

Only In Vegas

Fremont Street Experience: Las Vegas got its start in 1905, and Fremont was the first paved street. The Freemont Street Experience is a bounty of the sights and sounds that have evolved ever since: legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling, hospitality, famous bands and strolling showgirls. See where it all began. Location: 425 Fremont St., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-678-5777.

Springs Preserve: Just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, get a look at the natural beauty of this part of the world, with science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails and live animal shows. There’s A/C inside, with more than 300 interactive exhibits, and 1.6 miles of walking trails outside that include animal exhibits and a children’s play area. Location: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-822-7700.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Steve Campbell
Photography Courtesy of the Las Vegas News Bureau

Good Times in Las Vegas

Taking Advantage of the Recreational Possibilities

Car Guy (and Gal) Attractions

The Richard Petty Driving Experience: Located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Speedway allows participants to take command of the wheel and experience the thrill of driving a NASCAR race car. The Speedway is a modern motorsports facility that offers several competition courses for drivers looking to improve their skills. Location: 7055 Speedway Blvd.,
Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-237-3889.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing: Be there when the checkers fall! Fast Lap Las Vegas is within walking distance of the Strip for wheel-to-wheel racing at 40 miles per hour—which seems plenty fast when your keister is inches from the ground. Each heat allows 13 adults to compete in timed and recorded races, and Fast Lap is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 4288 S. Polaris Ave, Suite 109, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-736-8113

Pole Position Raceway: The karting at Pole Position Raceway offers another competition option. Standard races last about 10 minutes, with separate categories for adults and kids, and there are group and party packages that feature reserved times for private racing in two-, three- and four-race formats. There are also options for even larger groups that wish to rent the whole facility. Location: 4175 S. Arville, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-227-7223.

Off-Highway Adventures

Bitter Springs Trail Backcountry Byway: Four-wheel drive is recommended on this 28-mile route that runs from Valley of Fire State Park to North Shore Drive in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail traverses dry washes and skirts desert streams, abandoned mines and rare geological formations along the way. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Gold Butte Back Country Byway: The 62-mile Gold Butte Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Mesquite, about 90 miles outside of Las Vegas, and offers views of native desert wildlife, colored sandstone, sinkholes and ancient petroglyphs. The small town of Gold Butte was mined for copper, gold, zinc and lead beginning in the early 1900s, and the byway also passes a forest of Joshua trees. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Scenic Routes

Las Vegas Strip Scenic Byway: This tour of the Vegas Strip passes by the hotel and casino landmarks that have become synonymous with the city: an Egyptian pyramid, a medieval castle, the New York City skyline, a Roman temple, the Eiffel Tower, dancing water and an erupting volcano. This route has been designated as an All-American Road. Information is here or call 702-892-0711.

Red Rock Canyon Backcountry Byway: If you’re looking for something a little more pastoral, check out this scenic loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is found 12 miles west of Las Vegas off State Route 159. The paved roadway includes self-guided trails, picnic areas and vista pullouts. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle, which is used for improvements to the site. Information is here or call 702-515-5000.

Valley of Fire Scenic Byway: Replete with campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic grounds—and only 30 minutes from Las Vegas—the Valley of Fire is like a stone chameleon that changes color as the day progresses. Best viewing times are sunrise and sunset, when the rocks practically glow. Bring your camera. Information is here or call 702-397-2088.

Art and Museums

National Atomic Testing Museum: Atomic bombs were exploded just 65 miles from Las Vegas at the Nevada Test Site, which was the major nuclear testing facility in the United States from 1951–1992. The 8,000-sq.-ft. museum features video displays and galleries that explain the background behind the tests and the environmental impacts that led to the end of testing throughout the world. Location: 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-794-5151.

Arts Factory: Artists, architects, photographers and graphic designers rent space and work in this 50-year-old commercial warehouse that shelters a crafts cornucopia and is located near downtown Las Vegas in the 18b Arts District. In addition to artists and galleries, the building houses several bars and retailers. Location: 105 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-383-3133.

Bodies...The Exhibition: This exhibition displays real human bodies treated with a process called polymer preservation. The exhibits provide detailed, 3D views of human anatomy, with 13 whole bodies and more than 200 organs and partial bodies. The bodies are respectfully presented, “giving visitors the opportunity to view the beauty and complexity of their own organs and systems.” Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: If you’re more into animals other than humans, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. It includes displays on dinosaurs, marine life (including whales and sharks) and international wildlife as well as wild Nevada, the African savanna and rainforests. Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-384-3466.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: You may not get to gawk at the world’s most famous celebrities in the flesh, but you can see immaculate wax representations at Madame Tussauds; there are more than 100 models. Location: The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, 3377 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Suite 2001, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 866-841-3739.

The Mob Museum: This museum showcases organized crime’s origins in Las Vegas with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive exhibits. It provides an insider’s look at the events and people involved in both the law-enforcement and mob sides of the story. Location: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-229-2734.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas: This museum interprets the history of Nevada, dating from millions of years ago to the present. With displays on geology, flora and fauna, it also includes information about Native Americans, pioneers, early settlers and local landmarks. Location: 309 South Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-486-5205.

Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition: The 25,000-sq.-ft. exhibit features items such as luggage, an unopened bottle of 1900 vintage champagne and a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase. Visitors even have a chance to walk through authentically re-created first- and third-class rooms, with furnishings by original manufacturers. Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

The Great Outdoors

Golf in Vegas: There is a huge variety of golf courses in and around Las Vegas, including the Arroyo Golf Club at Red Rock; the Bali Hai, Mandalay Bay; the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club; the Snow Mountain course at Paiute Golf Resort; the TPC Las Vegas and dozens more. The well-kept fairways, water features and lush vegetation make each one a treasure. Information is here.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: For boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife and sightseeing all year long, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer great recreation. Located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas, the Visitor Center is open every day. Alongside Hoover Dam is the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge crossing the Colorado River—the first concrete-steel composite arch bridge built in the United States. Information: www.nps.gov/lake or call 702-293-8990.

For Kids of All Ages!

Vegas Indoor Skydiving: You can fly! At least you can in this vertical wind tunnel with either a single flight session or as a participant in a personalized coaching program. It’s said to be a popular training resource for sport skydivers, competition teams and military units. Location: 200 Convention Center Dr., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 877-LUV2FLY.

Only In Vegas

Fremont Street Experience: Las Vegas got its start in 1905, and Fremont was the first paved street. The Freemont Street Experience is a bounty of the sights and sounds that have evolved ever since: legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling, hospitality, famous bands and strolling showgirls. See where it all began. Location: 425 Fremont St., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-678-5777.

Springs Preserve: Just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, get a look at the natural beauty of this part of the world, with science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails and live animal shows. There’s A/C inside, with more than 300 interactive exhibits, and 1.6 miles of walking trails outside that include animal exhibits and a children’s play area. Location: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-822-7700.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Steve Campbell
Photography Courtesy of the Las Vegas News Bureau

Good Times in Las Vegas

Taking Advantage of the Recreational Possibilities

Car Guy (and Gal) Attractions

The Richard Petty Driving Experience: Located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Speedway allows participants to take command of the wheel and experience the thrill of driving a NASCAR race car. The Speedway is a modern motorsports facility that offers several competition courses for drivers looking to improve their skills. Location: 7055 Speedway Blvd.,
Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-237-3889.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing: Be there when the checkers fall! Fast Lap Las Vegas is within walking distance of the Strip for wheel-to-wheel racing at 40 miles per hour—which seems plenty fast when your keister is inches from the ground. Each heat allows 13 adults to compete in timed and recorded races, and Fast Lap is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 4288 S. Polaris Ave, Suite 109, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-736-8113

Pole Position Raceway: The karting at Pole Position Raceway offers another competition option. Standard races last about 10 minutes, with separate categories for adults and kids, and there are group and party packages that feature reserved times for private racing in two-, three- and four-race formats. There are also options for even larger groups that wish to rent the whole facility. Location: 4175 S. Arville, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-227-7223.

Off-Highway Adventures

Bitter Springs Trail Backcountry Byway: Four-wheel drive is recommended on this 28-mile route that runs from Valley of Fire State Park to North Shore Drive in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail traverses dry washes and skirts desert streams, abandoned mines and rare geological formations along the way. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Gold Butte Back Country Byway: The 62-mile Gold Butte Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Mesquite, about 90 miles outside of Las Vegas, and offers views of native desert wildlife, colored sandstone, sinkholes and ancient petroglyphs. The small town of Gold Butte was mined for copper, gold, zinc and lead beginning in the early 1900s, and the byway also passes a forest of Joshua trees. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Scenic Routes

Las Vegas Strip Scenic Byway: This tour of the Vegas Strip passes by the hotel and casino landmarks that have become synonymous with the city: an Egyptian pyramid, a medieval castle, the New York City skyline, a Roman temple, the Eiffel Tower, dancing water and an erupting volcano. This route has been designated as an All-American Road. Information is here or call 702-892-0711.

Red Rock Canyon Backcountry Byway: If you’re looking for something a little more pastoral, check out this scenic loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is found 12 miles west of Las Vegas off State Route 159. The paved roadway includes self-guided trails, picnic areas and vista pullouts. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle, which is used for improvements to the site. Information is here or call 702-515-5000.

Valley of Fire Scenic Byway: Replete with campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic grounds—and only 30 minutes from Las Vegas—the Valley of Fire is like a stone chameleon that changes color as the day progresses. Best viewing times are sunrise and sunset, when the rocks practically glow. Bring your camera. Information is here or call 702-397-2088.

Art and Museums

National Atomic Testing Museum: Atomic bombs were exploded just 65 miles from Las Vegas at the Nevada Test Site, which was the major nuclear testing facility in the United States from 1951–1992. The 8,000-sq.-ft. museum features video displays and galleries that explain the background behind the tests and the environmental impacts that led to the end of testing throughout the world. Location: 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-794-5151.

Arts Factory: Artists, architects, photographers and graphic designers rent space and work in this 50-year-old commercial warehouse that shelters a crafts cornucopia and is located near downtown Las Vegas in the 18b Arts District. In addition to artists and galleries, the building houses several bars and retailers. Location: 105 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-383-3133.

Bodies...The Exhibition: This exhibition displays real human bodies treated with a process called polymer preservation. The exhibits provide detailed, 3D views of human anatomy, with 13 whole bodies and more than 200 organs and partial bodies. The bodies are respectfully presented, “giving visitors the opportunity to view the beauty and complexity of their own organs and systems.” Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: If you’re more into animals other than humans, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. It includes displays on dinosaurs, marine life (including whales and sharks) and international wildlife as well as wild Nevada, the African savanna and rainforests. Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-384-3466.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: You may not get to gawk at the world’s most famous celebrities in the flesh, but you can see immaculate wax representations at Madame Tussauds; there are more than 100 models. Location: The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, 3377 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Suite 2001, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 866-841-3739.

The Mob Museum: This museum showcases organized crime’s origins in Las Vegas with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive exhibits. It provides an insider’s look at the events and people involved in both the law-enforcement and mob sides of the story. Location: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-229-2734.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas: This museum interprets the history of Nevada, dating from millions of years ago to the present. With displays on geology, flora and fauna, it also includes information about Native Americans, pioneers, early settlers and local landmarks. Location: 309 South Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-486-5205.

Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition: The 25,000-sq.-ft. exhibit features items such as luggage, an unopened bottle of 1900 vintage champagne and a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase. Visitors even have a chance to walk through authentically re-created first- and third-class rooms, with furnishings by original manufacturers. Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

The Great Outdoors

Golf in Vegas: There is a huge variety of golf courses in and around Las Vegas, including the Arroyo Golf Club at Red Rock; the Bali Hai, Mandalay Bay; the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club; the Snow Mountain course at Paiute Golf Resort; the TPC Las Vegas and dozens more. The well-kept fairways, water features and lush vegetation make each one a treasure. Information is here.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: For boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife and sightseeing all year long, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer great recreation. Located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas, the Visitor Center is open every day. Alongside Hoover Dam is the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge crossing the Colorado River—the first concrete-steel composite arch bridge built in the United States. Information: www.nps.gov/lake or call 702-293-8990.

For Kids of All Ages!

Vegas Indoor Skydiving: You can fly! At least you can in this vertical wind tunnel with either a single flight session or as a participant in a personalized coaching program. It’s said to be a popular training resource for sport skydivers, competition teams and military units. Location: 200 Convention Center Dr., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 877-LUV2FLY.

Only In Vegas

Fremont Street Experience: Las Vegas got its start in 1905, and Fremont was the first paved street. The Freemont Street Experience is a bounty of the sights and sounds that have evolved ever since: legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling, hospitality, famous bands and strolling showgirls. See where it all began. Location: 425 Fremont St., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-678-5777.

Springs Preserve: Just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, get a look at the natural beauty of this part of the world, with science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails and live animal shows. There’s A/C inside, with more than 300 interactive exhibits, and 1.6 miles of walking trails outside that include animal exhibits and a children’s play area. Location: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-822-7700.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Steve Campbell
Photography Courtesy of the Las Vegas News Bureau

Good Times in Las Vegas

Taking Advantage of the Recreational Possibilities

Car Guy (and Gal) Attractions

The Richard Petty Driving Experience: Located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Speedway allows participants to take command of the wheel and experience the thrill of driving a NASCAR race car. The Speedway is a modern motorsports facility that offers several competition courses for drivers looking to improve their skills. Location: 7055 Speedway Blvd.,
Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-237-3889.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing: Be there when the checkers fall! Fast Lap Las Vegas is within walking distance of the Strip for wheel-to-wheel racing at 40 miles per hour—which seems plenty fast when your keister is inches from the ground. Each heat allows 13 adults to compete in timed and recorded races, and Fast Lap is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 4288 S. Polaris Ave, Suite 109, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-736-8113

Pole Position Raceway: The karting at Pole Position Raceway offers another competition option. Standard races last about 10 minutes, with separate categories for adults and kids, and there are group and party packages that feature reserved times for private racing in two-, three- and four-race formats. There are also options for even larger groups that wish to rent the whole facility. Location: 4175 S. Arville, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-227-7223.

Off-Highway Adventures

Bitter Springs Trail Backcountry Byway: Four-wheel drive is recommended on this 28-mile route that runs from Valley of Fire State Park to North Shore Drive in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail traverses dry washes and skirts desert streams, abandoned mines and rare geological formations along the way. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Gold Butte Back Country Byway: The 62-mile Gold Butte Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Mesquite, about 90 miles outside of Las Vegas, and offers views of native desert wildlife, colored sandstone, sinkholes and ancient petroglyphs. The small town of Gold Butte was mined for copper, gold, zinc and lead beginning in the early 1900s, and the byway also passes a forest of Joshua trees. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Scenic Routes

Las Vegas Strip Scenic Byway: This tour of the Vegas Strip passes by the hotel and casino landmarks that have become synonymous with the city: an Egyptian pyramid, a medieval castle, the New York City skyline, a Roman temple, the Eiffel Tower, dancing water and an erupting volcano. This route has been designated as an All-American Road. Information is here or call 702-892-0711.

Red Rock Canyon Backcountry Byway: If you’re looking for something a little more pastoral, check out this scenic loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is found 12 miles west of Las Vegas off State Route 159. The paved roadway includes self-guided trails, picnic areas and vista pullouts. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle, which is used for improvements to the site. Information is here or call 702-515-5000.

Valley of Fire Scenic Byway: Replete with campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic grounds—and only 30 minutes from Las Vegas—the Valley of Fire is like a stone chameleon that changes color as the day progresses. Best viewing times are sunrise and sunset, when the rocks practically glow. Bring your camera. Information is here or call 702-397-2088.

Art and Museums

National Atomic Testing Museum: Atomic bombs were exploded just 65 miles from Las Vegas at the Nevada Test Site, which was the major nuclear testing facility in the United States from 1951–1992. The 8,000-sq.-ft. museum features video displays and galleries that explain the background behind the tests and the environmental impacts that led to the end of testing throughout the world. Location: 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-794-5151.

Arts Factory: Artists, architects, photographers and graphic designers rent space and work in this 50-year-old commercial warehouse that shelters a crafts cornucopia and is located near downtown Las Vegas in the 18b Arts District. In addition to artists and galleries, the building houses several bars and retailers. Location: 105 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-383-3133.

Bodies...The Exhibition: This exhibition displays real human bodies treated with a process called polymer preservation. The exhibits provide detailed, 3D views of human anatomy, with 13 whole bodies and more than 200 organs and partial bodies. The bodies are respectfully presented, “giving visitors the opportunity to view the beauty and complexity of their own organs and systems.” Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: If you’re more into animals other than humans, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. It includes displays on dinosaurs, marine life (including whales and sharks) and international wildlife as well as wild Nevada, the African savanna and rainforests. Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-384-3466.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: You may not get to gawk at the world’s most famous celebrities in the flesh, but you can see immaculate wax representations at Madame Tussauds; there are more than 100 models. Location: The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, 3377 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Suite 2001, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 866-841-3739.

The Mob Museum: This museum showcases organized crime’s origins in Las Vegas with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive exhibits. It provides an insider’s look at the events and people involved in both the law-enforcement and mob sides of the story. Location: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-229-2734.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas: This museum interprets the history of Nevada, dating from millions of years ago to the present. With displays on geology, flora and fauna, it also includes information about Native Americans, pioneers, early settlers and local landmarks. Location: 309 South Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-486-5205.

Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition: The 25,000-sq.-ft. exhibit features items such as luggage, an unopened bottle of 1900 vintage champagne and a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase. Visitors even have a chance to walk through authentically re-created first- and third-class rooms, with furnishings by original manufacturers. Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

The Great Outdoors

Golf in Vegas: There is a huge variety of golf courses in and around Las Vegas, including the Arroyo Golf Club at Red Rock; the Bali Hai, Mandalay Bay; the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club; the Snow Mountain course at Paiute Golf Resort; the TPC Las Vegas and dozens more. The well-kept fairways, water features and lush vegetation make each one a treasure. Information is here.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: For boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife and sightseeing all year long, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer great recreation. Located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas, the Visitor Center is open every day. Alongside Hoover Dam is the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge crossing the Colorado River—the first concrete-steel composite arch bridge built in the United States. Information: www.nps.gov/lake or call 702-293-8990.

For Kids of All Ages!

Vegas Indoor Skydiving: You can fly! At least you can in this vertical wind tunnel with either a single flight session or as a participant in a personalized coaching program. It’s said to be a popular training resource for sport skydivers, competition teams and military units. Location: 200 Convention Center Dr., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 877-LUV2FLY.

Only In Vegas

Fremont Street Experience: Las Vegas got its start in 1905, and Fremont was the first paved street. The Freemont Street Experience is a bounty of the sights and sounds that have evolved ever since: legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling, hospitality, famous bands and strolling showgirls. See where it all began. Location: 425 Fremont St., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-678-5777.

Springs Preserve: Just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, get a look at the natural beauty of this part of the world, with science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails and live animal shows. There’s A/C inside, with more than 300 interactive exhibits, and 1.6 miles of walking trails outside that include animal exhibits and a children’s play area. Location: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-822-7700.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Steve Campbell
Photography Courtesy of the Las Vegas News Bureau

Good Times in Las Vegas

Taking Advantage of the Recreational Possibilities

Car Guy (and Gal) Attractions

The Richard Petty Driving Experience: Located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Speedway allows participants to take command of the wheel and experience the thrill of driving a NASCAR race car. The Speedway is a modern motorsports facility that offers several competition courses for drivers looking to improve their skills. Location: 7055 Speedway Blvd.,
Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-237-3889.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing: Be there when the checkers fall! Fast Lap Las Vegas is within walking distance of the Strip for wheel-to-wheel racing at 40 miles per hour—which seems plenty fast when your keister is inches from the ground. Each heat allows 13 adults to compete in timed and recorded races, and Fast Lap is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 4288 S. Polaris Ave, Suite 109, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-736-8113

Pole Position Raceway: The karting at Pole Position Raceway offers another competition option. Standard races last about 10 minutes, with separate categories for adults and kids, and there are group and party packages that feature reserved times for private racing in two-, three- and four-race formats. There are also options for even larger groups that wish to rent the whole facility. Location: 4175 S. Arville, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-227-7223.

Off-Highway Adventures

Bitter Springs Trail Backcountry Byway: Four-wheel drive is recommended on this 28-mile route that runs from Valley of Fire State Park to North Shore Drive in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail traverses dry washes and skirts desert streams, abandoned mines and rare geological formations along the way. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Gold Butte Back Country Byway: The 62-mile Gold Butte Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Mesquite, about 90 miles outside of Las Vegas, and offers views of native desert wildlife, colored sandstone, sinkholes and ancient petroglyphs. The small town of Gold Butte was mined for copper, gold, zinc and lead beginning in the early 1900s, and the byway also passes a forest of Joshua trees. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Scenic Routes

Las Vegas Strip Scenic Byway: This tour of the Vegas Strip passes by the hotel and casino landmarks that have become synonymous with the city: an Egyptian pyramid, a medieval castle, the New York City skyline, a Roman temple, the Eiffel Tower, dancing water and an erupting volcano. This route has been designated as an All-American Road. Information is here or call 702-892-0711.

Red Rock Canyon Backcountry Byway: If you’re looking for something a little more pastoral, check out this scenic loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is found 12 miles west of Las Vegas off State Route 159. The paved roadway includes self-guided trails, picnic areas and vista pullouts. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle, which is used for improvements to the site. Information is here or call 702-515-5000.

Valley of Fire Scenic Byway: Replete with campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic grounds—and only 30 minutes from Las Vegas—the Valley of Fire is like a stone chameleon that changes color as the day progresses. Best viewing times are sunrise and sunset, when the rocks practically glow. Bring your camera. Information is here or call 702-397-2088.

Art and Museums

National Atomic Testing Museum: Atomic bombs were exploded just 65 miles from Las Vegas at the Nevada Test Site, which was the major nuclear testing facility in the United States from 1951–1992. The 8,000-sq.-ft. museum features video displays and galleries that explain the background behind the tests and the environmental impacts that led to the end of testing throughout the world. Location: 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-794-5151.

Arts Factory: Artists, architects, photographers and graphic designers rent space and work in this 50-year-old commercial warehouse that shelters a crafts cornucopia and is located near downtown Las Vegas in the 18b Arts District. In addition to artists and galleries, the building houses several bars and retailers. Location: 105 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-383-3133.

Bodies...The Exhibition: This exhibition displays real human bodies treated with a process called polymer preservation. The exhibits provide detailed, 3D views of human anatomy, with 13 whole bodies and more than 200 organs and partial bodies. The bodies are respectfully presented, “giving visitors the opportunity to view the beauty and complexity of their own organs and systems.” Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: If you’re more into animals other than humans, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. It includes displays on dinosaurs, marine life (including whales and sharks) and international wildlife as well as wild Nevada, the African savanna and rainforests. Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-384-3466.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: You may not get to gawk at the world’s most famous celebrities in the flesh, but you can see immaculate wax representations at Madame Tussauds; there are more than 100 models. Location: The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, 3377 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Suite 2001, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 866-841-3739.

The Mob Museum: This museum showcases organized crime’s origins in Las Vegas with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive exhibits. It provides an insider’s look at the events and people involved in both the law-enforcement and mob sides of the story. Location: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-229-2734.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas: This museum interprets the history of Nevada, dating from millions of years ago to the present. With displays on geology, flora and fauna, it also includes information about Native Americans, pioneers, early settlers and local landmarks. Location: 309 South Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-486-5205.

Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition: The 25,000-sq.-ft. exhibit features items such as luggage, an unopened bottle of 1900 vintage champagne and a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase. Visitors even have a chance to walk through authentically re-created first- and third-class rooms, with furnishings by original manufacturers. Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

The Great Outdoors

Golf in Vegas: There is a huge variety of golf courses in and around Las Vegas, including the Arroyo Golf Club at Red Rock; the Bali Hai, Mandalay Bay; the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club; the Snow Mountain course at Paiute Golf Resort; the TPC Las Vegas and dozens more. The well-kept fairways, water features and lush vegetation make each one a treasure. Information is here.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: For boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife and sightseeing all year long, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer great recreation. Located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas, the Visitor Center is open every day. Alongside Hoover Dam is the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge crossing the Colorado River—the first concrete-steel composite arch bridge built in the United States. Information: www.nps.gov/lake or call 702-293-8990.

For Kids of All Ages!

Vegas Indoor Skydiving: You can fly! At least you can in this vertical wind tunnel with either a single flight session or as a participant in a personalized coaching program. It’s said to be a popular training resource for sport skydivers, competition teams and military units. Location: 200 Convention Center Dr., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 877-LUV2FLY.

Only In Vegas

Fremont Street Experience: Las Vegas got its start in 1905, and Fremont was the first paved street. The Freemont Street Experience is a bounty of the sights and sounds that have evolved ever since: legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling, hospitality, famous bands and strolling showgirls. See where it all began. Location: 425 Fremont St., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-678-5777.

Springs Preserve: Just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, get a look at the natural beauty of this part of the world, with science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails and live animal shows. There’s A/C inside, with more than 300 interactive exhibits, and 1.6 miles of walking trails outside that include animal exhibits and a children’s play area. Location: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-822-7700.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Steve Campbell
Photography Courtesy of the Las Vegas News Bureau

Good Times in Las Vegas

Taking Advantage of the Recreational Possibilities

Car Guy (and Gal) Attractions

The Richard Petty Driving Experience: Located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Speedway allows participants to take command of the wheel and experience the thrill of driving a NASCAR race car. The Speedway is a modern motorsports facility that offers several competition courses for drivers looking to improve their skills. Location: 7055 Speedway Blvd.,
Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-237-3889.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing: Be there when the checkers fall! Fast Lap Las Vegas is within walking distance of the Strip for wheel-to-wheel racing at 40 miles per hour—which seems plenty fast when your keister is inches from the ground. Each heat allows 13 adults to compete in timed and recorded races, and Fast Lap is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 4288 S. Polaris Ave, Suite 109, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-736-8113

Pole Position Raceway: The karting at Pole Position Raceway offers another competition option. Standard races last about 10 minutes, with separate categories for adults and kids, and there are group and party packages that feature reserved times for private racing in two-, three- and four-race formats. There are also options for even larger groups that wish to rent the whole facility. Location: 4175 S. Arville, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-227-7223.

Off-Highway Adventures

Bitter Springs Trail Backcountry Byway: Four-wheel drive is recommended on this 28-mile route that runs from Valley of Fire State Park to North Shore Drive in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail traverses dry washes and skirts desert streams, abandoned mines and rare geological formations along the way. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Gold Butte Back Country Byway: The 62-mile Gold Butte Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Mesquite, about 90 miles outside of Las Vegas, and offers views of native desert wildlife, colored sandstone, sinkholes and ancient petroglyphs. The small town of Gold Butte was mined for copper, gold, zinc and lead beginning in the early 1900s, and the byway also passes a forest of Joshua trees. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Scenic Routes

Las Vegas Strip Scenic Byway: This tour of the Vegas Strip passes by the hotel and casino landmarks that have become synonymous with the city: an Egyptian pyramid, a medieval castle, the New York City skyline, a Roman temple, the Eiffel Tower, dancing water and an erupting volcano. This route has been designated as an All-American Road. Information is here or call 702-892-0711.

Red Rock Canyon Backcountry Byway: If you’re looking for something a little more pastoral, check out this scenic loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is found 12 miles west of Las Vegas off State Route 159. The paved roadway includes self-guided trails, picnic areas and vista pullouts. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle, which is used for improvements to the site. Information is here or call 702-515-5000.

Valley of Fire Scenic Byway: Replete with campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic grounds—and only 30 minutes from Las Vegas—the Valley of Fire is like a stone chameleon that changes color as the day progresses. Best viewing times are sunrise and sunset, when the rocks practically glow. Bring your camera. Information is here or call 702-397-2088.

Art and Museums

National Atomic Testing Museum: Atomic bombs were exploded just 65 miles from Las Vegas at the Nevada Test Site, which was the major nuclear testing facility in the United States from 1951–1992. The 8,000-sq.-ft. museum features video displays and galleries that explain the background behind the tests and the environmental impacts that led to the end of testing throughout the world. Location: 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-794-5151.

Arts Factory: Artists, architects, photographers and graphic designers rent space and work in this 50-year-old commercial warehouse that shelters a crafts cornucopia and is located near downtown Las Vegas in the 18b Arts District. In addition to artists and galleries, the building houses several bars and retailers. Location: 105 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-383-3133.

Bodies...The Exhibition: This exhibition displays real human bodies treated with a process called polymer preservation. The exhibits provide detailed, 3D views of human anatomy, with 13 whole bodies and more than 200 organs and partial bodies. The bodies are respectfully presented, “giving visitors the opportunity to view the beauty and complexity of their own organs and systems.” Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: If you’re more into animals other than humans, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. It includes displays on dinosaurs, marine life (including whales and sharks) and international wildlife as well as wild Nevada, the African savanna and rainforests. Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-384-3466.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: You may not get to gawk at the world’s most famous celebrities in the flesh, but you can see immaculate wax representations at Madame Tussauds; there are more than 100 models. Location: The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, 3377 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Suite 2001, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 866-841-3739.

The Mob Museum: This museum showcases organized crime’s origins in Las Vegas with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive exhibits. It provides an insider’s look at the events and people involved in both the law-enforcement and mob sides of the story. Location: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-229-2734.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas: This museum interprets the history of Nevada, dating from millions of years ago to the present. With displays on geology, flora and fauna, it also includes information about Native Americans, pioneers, early settlers and local landmarks. Location: 309 South Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-486-5205.

Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition: The 25,000-sq.-ft. exhibit features items such as luggage, an unopened bottle of 1900 vintage champagne and a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase. Visitors even have a chance to walk through authentically re-created first- and third-class rooms, with furnishings by original manufacturers. Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

The Great Outdoors

Golf in Vegas: There is a huge variety of golf courses in and around Las Vegas, including the Arroyo Golf Club at Red Rock; the Bali Hai, Mandalay Bay; the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club; the Snow Mountain course at Paiute Golf Resort; the TPC Las Vegas and dozens more. The well-kept fairways, water features and lush vegetation make each one a treasure. Information is here.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: For boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife and sightseeing all year long, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer great recreation. Located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas, the Visitor Center is open every day. Alongside Hoover Dam is the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge crossing the Colorado River—the first concrete-steel composite arch bridge built in the United States. Information: www.nps.gov/lake or call 702-293-8990.

For Kids of All Ages!

Vegas Indoor Skydiving: You can fly! At least you can in this vertical wind tunnel with either a single flight session or as a participant in a personalized coaching program. It’s said to be a popular training resource for sport skydivers, competition teams and military units. Location: 200 Convention Center Dr., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 877-LUV2FLY.

Only In Vegas

Fremont Street Experience: Las Vegas got its start in 1905, and Fremont was the first paved street. The Freemont Street Experience is a bounty of the sights and sounds that have evolved ever since: legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling, hospitality, famous bands and strolling showgirls. See where it all began. Location: 425 Fremont St., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-678-5777.

Springs Preserve: Just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, get a look at the natural beauty of this part of the world, with science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails and live animal shows. There’s A/C inside, with more than 300 interactive exhibits, and 1.6 miles of walking trails outside that include animal exhibits and a children’s play area. Location: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-822-7700.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Steve Campbell
Photography Courtesy of the Las Vegas News Bureau

Good Times in Las Vegas

Taking Advantage of the Recreational Possibilities

Car Guy (and Gal) Attractions

The Richard Petty Driving Experience: Located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, The Richard Petty Driving Experience at the Las Vegas Speedway allows participants to take command of the wheel and experience the thrill of driving a NASCAR race car. The Speedway is a modern motorsports facility that offers several competition courses for drivers looking to improve their skills. Location: 7055 Speedway Blvd.,
Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-237-3889.

Fast Lap Indoor Kart Racing: Be there when the checkers fall! Fast Lap Las Vegas is within walking distance of the Strip for wheel-to-wheel racing at 40 miles per hour—which seems plenty fast when your keister is inches from the ground. Each heat allows 13 adults to compete in timed and recorded races, and Fast Lap is open from 11:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Location: 4288 S. Polaris Ave, Suite 109, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-736-8113

Pole Position Raceway: The karting at Pole Position Raceway offers another competition option. Standard races last about 10 minutes, with separate categories for adults and kids, and there are group and party packages that feature reserved times for private racing in two-, three- and four-race formats. There are also options for even larger groups that wish to rent the whole facility. Location: 4175 S. Arville, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-227-7223.

Off-Highway Adventures

Bitter Springs Trail Backcountry Byway: Four-wheel drive is recommended on this 28-mile route that runs from Valley of Fire State Park to North Shore Drive in Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The trail traverses dry washes and skirts desert streams, abandoned mines and rare geological formations along the way. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Gold Butte Back Country Byway: The 62-mile Gold Butte Back Country Byway begins five miles south of Mesquite, about 90 miles outside of Las Vegas, and offers views of native desert wildlife, colored sandstone, sinkholes and ancient petroglyphs. The small town of Gold Butte was mined for copper, gold, zinc and lead beginning in the early 1900s, and the byway also passes a forest of Joshua trees. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. Information is here or call 775-861-6500.

Scenic Routes

Las Vegas Strip Scenic Byway: This tour of the Vegas Strip passes by the hotel and casino landmarks that have become synonymous with the city: an Egyptian pyramid, a medieval castle, the New York City skyline, a Roman temple, the Eiffel Tower, dancing water and an erupting volcano. This route has been designated as an All-American Road. Information is here or call 702-892-0711.

Red Rock Canyon Backcountry Byway: If you’re looking for something a little more pastoral, check out this scenic loop through the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, which is found 12 miles west of Las Vegas off State Route 159. The paved roadway includes self-guided trails, picnic areas and vista pullouts. There is a fee of $5 per vehicle, which is used for improvements to the site. Information is here or call 702-515-5000.

Valley of Fire Scenic Byway: Replete with campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic grounds—and only 30 minutes from Las Vegas—the Valley of Fire is like a stone chameleon that changes color as the day progresses. Best viewing times are sunrise and sunset, when the rocks practically glow. Bring your camera. Information is here or call 702-397-2088.

Art and Museums

National Atomic Testing Museum: Atomic bombs were exploded just 65 miles from Las Vegas at the Nevada Test Site, which was the major nuclear testing facility in the United States from 1951–1992. The 8,000-sq.-ft. museum features video displays and galleries that explain the background behind the tests and the environmental impacts that led to the end of testing throughout the world. Location: 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-794-5151.

Arts Factory: Artists, architects, photographers and graphic designers rent space and work in this 50-year-old commercial warehouse that shelters a crafts cornucopia and is located near downtown Las Vegas in the 18b Arts District. In addition to artists and galleries, the building houses several bars and retailers. Location: 105 E. Charleston Blvd, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-383-3133.

Bodies...The Exhibition: This exhibition displays real human bodies treated with a process called polymer preservation. The exhibits provide detailed, 3D views of human anatomy, with 13 whole bodies and more than 200 organs and partial bodies. The bodies are respectfully presented, “giving visitors the opportunity to view the beauty and complexity of their own organs and systems.” Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum: If you’re more into animals other than humans, visit the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. It includes displays on dinosaurs, marine life (including whales and sharks) and international wildlife as well as wild Nevada, the African savanna and rainforests. Location: 900 Las Vegas Blvd. North, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-384-3466.

Madame Tussauds Las Vegas: You may not get to gawk at the world’s most famous celebrities in the flesh, but you can see immaculate wax representations at Madame Tussauds; there are more than 100 models. Location: The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino, 3377 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Suite 2001, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 866-841-3739.

The Mob Museum: This museum showcases organized crime’s origins in Las Vegas with theater presentations, artifacts and interactive exhibits. It provides an insider’s look at the events and people involved in both the law-enforcement and mob sides of the story. Location: 300 Stewart Ave., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-229-2734.

Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas: This museum interprets the history of Nevada, dating from millions of years ago to the present. With displays on geology, flora and fauna, it also includes information about Native Americans, pioneers, early settlers and local landmarks. Location: 309 South Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-486-5205.

Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition: The 25,000-sq.-ft. exhibit features items such as luggage, an unopened bottle of 1900 vintage champagne and a full-scale re-creation of the Grand Staircase. Visitors even have a chance to walk through authentically re-created first- and third-class rooms, with furnishings by original manufacturers. Location: Luxor Hotel and Casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas. Information is here or call 800-557-7428.

The Great Outdoors

Golf in Vegas: There is a huge variety of golf courses in and around Las Vegas, including the Arroyo Golf Club at Red Rock; the Bali Hai, Mandalay Bay; the Rhodes Ranch Golf Club; the Snow Mountain course at Paiute Golf Resort; the TPC Las Vegas and dozens more. The well-kept fairways, water features and lush vegetation make each one a treasure. Information is here.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead: For boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, wildlife and sightseeing all year long, Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer great recreation. Located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas, the Visitor Center is open every day. Alongside Hoover Dam is the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge crossing the Colorado River—the first concrete-steel composite arch bridge built in the United States. Information: www.nps.gov/lake or call 702-293-8990.

For Kids of All Ages!

Vegas Indoor Skydiving: You can fly! At least you can in this vertical wind tunnel with either a single flight session or as a participant in a personalized coaching program. It’s said to be a popular training resource for sport skydivers, competition teams and military units. Location: 200 Convention Center Dr., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 877-LUV2FLY.

Only In Vegas

Fremont Street Experience: Las Vegas got its start in 1905, and Fremont was the first paved street. The Freemont Street Experience is a bounty of the sights and sounds that have evolved ever since: legendary casinos, free entertainment, old-fashioned gambling, hospitality, famous bands and strolling showgirls. See where it all began. Location: 425 Fremont St., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-678-5777.

Springs Preserve: Just three miles from the Las Vegas Strip, get a look at the natural beauty of this part of the world, with science and nature exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking, trails and live animal shows. There’s A/C inside, with more than 300 interactive exhibits, and 1.6 miles of walking trails outside that include animal exhibits and a children’s play area. Location: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas. Information is here or call 702-822-7700.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Jon Wyly

SEMA Show Product Data Education Track

Hourly Sessions All Day Monday, Sponsored by the SEMA Data Co-op

From beginner to expert, the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) education track is sure to provide insight into better managing your product data and making use of the new SDC Product Information Management System. Join the SDC team for training and ideas presented through interactive discussions, questions and answers and demonstrations on the following topics:

Room N259

Introduction to PIES
8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Just getting started with product data? This introduction to PIES will explain the Product Information Exchange Standard in easy-to-understand terms, giving you the confidence to begin managing your data to this comprehensive industry standard.

Introduction to ACES
9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Vehicle application coverage is a critical element of data management, and this introduction to ACES will get you started in the right direction in creating complete, accurate application information using the Aftermarket Catalog Enhanced Standard.

Advanced PIES
10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Ready for a deeper dive into the PIES standard? This advanced session will provide training on more detailed elements of the standard, including how to use techniques, such as advanced product attributing, to increase product visibility and enhanced product descriptions to help you see more parts. This session is especially important for product lines that are not dependent on year/make/model applications.

Advanced ACES
11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

For more advanced users, this ACES session will provide training and insight into this critical data standard with a deeper dive. Includes advanced methods on the proper use of each of the ACES segments and how to use the ACES fitment standard in conjunction with the PIES standard to increase product searchability and sell more parts.

Room N261

SDC Supplier User Group
8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

If you are a SEMA Data Co-op supplier or want to be, join this open discussion about the SDC system and its features and functions. Participate in Q&A with fellow system users and get answers to your questions along with a preview of what’s coming next with the SDC.

SDC Receiver User Group
9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

If you are a SEMA Data Co-op receiver or want to be, join this open discussion about the SDC system and its features and functions. Participate in Q&A with fellow system users and get answers to your questions along with a preview of what’s coming next with the SDC.

SDC: What’s New
10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Get the latest information about what’s on the horizon for the SDC. Preview SEMA Search, the comprehensive online catalog powered by SDC data, and join a discussion about added features, ideas and how future tools and services can benefit your business.

Introduction to the SDC PIMS
11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The momentum is building, and hundreds of SEMA businesses have jumped on board with the SEMA Data Co-op. See what the excitement is all about. Learn how the SDC can help grow your business, and see a demo of the online data management system.

Also be sure to set a private meeting with the SDC in booth #20579, where you can get a personalized presentation about SDC services, view a system demonstration and engage in technical discussions with some of the industry’s leading data experts. Simply log on to www.SEMA.org/coop-signup and request a meeting. The SDC will be located in the same spot as last year, in the Central Hall just behind the Ford display in the raised meeting room right next to the Keystone Automotive booth.

To learn more about how you can take control of your product data and manage it at the lowest possible cost, contact SEMA Data Co-op Director of Membership Jim Graven at jimg@semadatacoop.org or 888-958-6698 x4.

SEMA News—November 2013

EVENTS
By Jon Wyly

SEMA Show Product Data Education Track

Hourly Sessions All Day Monday, Sponsored by the SEMA Data Co-op

From beginner to expert, the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) education track is sure to provide insight into better managing your product data and making use of the new SDC Product Information Management System. Join the SDC team for training and ideas presented through interactive discussions, questions and answers and demonstrations on the following topics:

Room N259

Introduction to PIES
8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Just getting started with product data? This introduction to PIES will explain the Product Information Exchange Standard in easy-to-understand terms, giving you the confidence to begin managing your data to this comprehensive industry standard.

Introduction to ACES
9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Vehicle application coverage is a critical element of data management, and this introduction to ACES will get you started in the right direction in creating complete, accurate application information using the Aftermarket Catalog Enhanced Standard.

Advanced PIES
10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Ready for a deeper dive into the PIES standard? This advanced session will provide training on more detailed elements of the standard, including how to use techniques, such as advanced product attributing, to increase product visibility and enhanced product descriptions to help you see more parts. This session is especially important for product lines that are not dependent on year/make/model applications.

Advanced ACES
11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

For more advanced users, this ACES session will provide training and insight into this critical data standard with a deeper dive. Includes advanced methods on the proper use of each of the ACES segments and how to use the ACES fitment standard in conjunction with the PIES standard to increase product searchability and sell more parts.

Room N261

SDC Supplier User Group
8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

If you are a SEMA Data Co-op supplier or want to be, join this open discussion about the SDC system and its features and functions. Participate in Q&A with fellow system users and get answers to your questions along with a preview of what’s coming next with the SDC.

SDC Receiver User Group
9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

If you are a SEMA Data Co-op receiver or want to be, join this open discussion about the SDC system and its features and functions. Participate in Q&A with fellow system users and get answers to your questions along with a preview of what’s coming next with the SDC.

SDC: What’s New
10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Get the latest information about what’s on the horizon for the SDC. Preview SEMA Search, the comprehensive online catalog powered by SDC data, and join a discussion about added features, ideas and how future tools and services can benefit your business.

Introduction to the SDC PIMS
11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The momentum is building, and hundreds of SEMA businesses have jumped on board with the SEMA Data Co-op. See what the excitement is all about. Learn how the SDC can help grow your business, and see a demo of the online data management system.

Also be sure to set a private meeting with the SDC in booth #20579, where you can get a personalized presentation about SDC services, view a system demonstration and engage in technical discussions with some of the industry’s leading data experts. Simply log on to www.SEMA.org/coop-signup and request a meeting. The SDC will be located in the same spot as last year, in the Central Hall just behind the Ford display in the raised meeting room right next to the Keystone Automotive booth.

To learn more about how you can take control of your product data and manage it at the lowest possible cost, contact SEMA Data Co-op Director of Membership Jim Graven at jimg@semadatacoop.org or 888-958-6698 x4.